Selling Tips

If you’re planning to sell your home, you’ll probably have three main questions – how much is it worth, who should I ask to sell it for me and what process should I use? Here are some thoughts to get you started.

HOW MUCH IS MY HOME WORTH?

Some indication of this is usually provided in a written appraisal, which will be based on recent sales of similar homes. It pays to bear in mind that there’s more to comparing properties than the land proportions and floor area of the house. Like you, buyers place a value on things like sunshine, ease of access, school zones, the floor plan, views, type of construction and so on.

People are often drawn to the highest appraisal of their home and may be tempted to select their agent on that basis. This might have some merit if the high appraisal indicates the agent views your home in the most positive light. However, while the lowest appraisal might equally suggest the agent is not very enthusiastic about your home, it could simply be the ‘most honest’ and accurate.

We strongly recommend you have a detailed discussion with each agent about how they prepared your appraisal and arrived at the stated value.

WHO SHOULD I ASK TO SELL MY HOME?

Most people choose an agent or real estate company because a friend recommended them, which is not a bad approach. However, it pays to get a range of opinions from two or three agencies in your area. The company that sells the most homes would be a good start, but remember we’ve based our business on the belief that volume alone isn’t the best or only indicator of who you should choose.

In the end, it probably comes down to two things – how well you think the salesperson or company ‘fits’ with you, and how confident you feel about their ability to achieve your top price.

WHAT SALES PROCESS SHOULD I USE?

In general, the best process for selling your home will be determined by the type of property, the demand for it, the state of the market at the time of sale, and your timeframe.

Your story is also important, which could include requirements for things like discretion, privacy and tight control. It’s essential to make these things clear so your agent understands what will work for you. Either way, selling your home will require a marketing plan and a clear approach that you understand. Bear in mind that while it is possible to make a quiet and confidential sale, it’s very hard to sell a complete secret.

The other question people have is whether to list with one company or several. The theory that having more agencies involved improves your chances of finding a buyer is not necessarily true. There is one pool of buyers in any price range and they are interested in finding the right home, not the agency that might be selling it.

For you the question is more about which option is most likely to optimise your price. We believe that controlling the information that goes into the market is particularly important here, especially when it comes to your price expectations. As they say, ‘loose lips sink ships’. The other common saying that ‘everyone’s listing is no one’s responsibility’, which is also very relevant.

As a company, we would prefer to have the controls in place around your home to ensure everything is done with the diligence you and your home require and deserve.